MATHEMATICS
AS and A2 LEVEL
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Any student embarking upon the AS/A2 level Mathematics course will be expected to have achieved a
grade A from the GCSE examination. If a grade B in Maths has been achieved then acceptance on the
course is subject to a 50% pass rate in an algebraic test in the first week. Examples and practice work
will be recommended to pupils at results day to perform any necessary preparation for this. All students
will need to have high levels of algebraic skills, in particular. An enjoyment of Mathematics and a real
commitment to developing these skills is essential.
AIMS
The MEI scheme is a syllabus designed by industrial specialists to incorporate “real-world” problems.
There is regular testing to prepare students for examinations with timed papers being given on an ongoing basis. The use of computers and graphical calculators is encouraged to improve the quality of
students’ work and use is made of on-line materials. Homework is generally set after each lesson to test
understanding.
Students start with AS Mathematics. This consists of two AS units in Pure Mathematics C1 and C2,
together with an Applied unit, either S1 or M1. To complete the A2 GCE Mathematics, candidates take a
further three units, C3, C4 and an Applied unit either S2 or M2 following on from their AS modules.
Some students may also wish to consider AS/A2 Further Mathematics, for which an additional six
modules need to be studied, giving a total of two complete A2 subjects in Mathematics and Further
Mathematics. These extra modules will include 2 extra Pure modules and 4 additional Applied modules.
PURE
MECHANICS
The Pure Mathematics
modules C1, C2, C3 and C4
cover a range of topics that
broaden the knowledge
gained at GCSE with a much
greater depth of algebra and
trigonometry in particular. A
new brand of mathematics –
Calculus – will be introduced
in these modules. There is
one piece of coursework to be
completed in Y13, involving
the analytical solution of
equations in C3.
The Mechanics modules M1
and M2 introduce students to
mathematical modelling,
kinematics, statics and
dynamics. These modules are
recommended particularly for
students following an AS/A2
Physics course.
IF YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE
Contact: Ms Pankhurst or any member of the Mathematics staff.
STATISTICS
In Statistics S1 and S2 aim to
equip students to handle data
and to analyse effectively.
They cover the application of
the Normal Distribution and
sampling. They are a useful
choice for those students of
History, Geography,
Economics, Psychology,
Sociology, Biology, Chemistry
or Business Studies.